Journal Description
Sustainability
Sustainability
is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal on environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Studies) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Sustainability.
- Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits and Wind.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
A Greenhouse Gas Footprint Analysis of Advanced Hardware Technologies in Connected Autonomous Vehicles
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4090; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104090 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Greenhouse gas emissions are a critical concern for China’s automotive industry, especially for passenger cars due to their high sales’ volume. Recently, the trend towards connected and autonomous driving vehicles has been significant in the passenger car market. However, the impact of these
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Greenhouse gas emissions are a critical concern for China’s automotive industry, especially for passenger cars due to their high sales’ volume. Recently, the trend towards connected and autonomous driving vehicles has been significant in the passenger car market. However, the impact of these systems on the life cycle emissions of vehicles remains unclear. This paper focuses on system function levels from driver assistance to full driving automation and studies their life cycle greenhouse gas emissions. This research establishes a component list for the hardware system and a material inventory. Then, this paper reveals significant differences in total system emissions at these technology levels, 540.1 kg for primary, 1318.7 kg for medium, and 2279.2 kg for advanced systems. Despite this difference, the total is less than 7.23% of the total vehicle emissions. To further reduce this portion of GHG emissions, it is recommended that vehicles favor millimeter-wave radar over solid-state LiDAR in their sensing system hardware, coupled with cameras as the primary sensing element. In addition, Intelligent Hardware Systems are not recommended for internal combustion engine passenger cars for optimal balance between functionality and environmental impact.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Transportation Systems)
Open AccessReview
Global Development and Readiness of Nuclear Fusion Technology as the Alternative Source for Clean Energy Supply
by
Mustakimah Mohamed, Nur Diyana Zakuan, Tengku Nur Adibah Tengku Hassan, Serene Sow Mun Lock and Azmi Mohd Shariff
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4089; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104089 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Nuclear fusion is understood as an energy reaction that does not emit greenhouse gases, and it has been considered as a long-term source of low-carbon electricity that is favourable to curtail rapid climate change. Fusion offers a pathway to resolve energy security and
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Nuclear fusion is understood as an energy reaction that does not emit greenhouse gases, and it has been considered as a long-term source of low-carbon electricity that is favourable to curtail rapid climate change. Fusion offers a pathway to resolve energy security and the unequal distribution of energy resources since seawater is its ultimate fuel source and a few grams of fuel can generate mega kilowatts of power. The development and testing of new materials and technologies are unceasing to achieve the net fusion energy through national and international collaboration as well as private partnerships. The ever-growing number of research works report various designs and magnet-based fusion devices, such as stellarators, lasers, and tokamaks. This article provides an overview on the utilization of nuclear energy as a clean energy source, as well as the strategies and progress towards establishing successful commercial fusion energy to the grid and transition to a reliable clean energy source. The overview focuses on the fusion nuclear development in five major countries, UK, US, China, Japan, and Russia. Identified technical and financial challenges are also described at the end of this article. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) has been an international reference program for fusion energy development and most developed countries with nuclear development capacity are aiming to complete their in-house fusion energy facilities in parallel to ITER. Many fusion programs are finishing the conceptual design and shifting into the phase of engineering design for the planned DEMO fusion facilities. The significant challenges were identified from the perspective of device efficiency and robustness, sustainable funding, and facility maintenance and safety, which must be addressed diligently to realize fusion energy as alternative clean energy that mitigates climate change and supports the goals of energy security.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nuclear Energy and Technology and Its Environmental Impact)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Impact of Humic Biostimulants on Cassava Yield and Nutrition in Northeast Brazil
by
Maisa da Conceição Santos, Mônica Tejo Cavalcanti, Larissa Nicácio Pessoa, Zenaide Gomes da Silva, Allisson Miguel da Silva, Tancredo Souza, Juliane Maciel Henschel, Emmanuel Moreira Pereira, Manoel Alexandre Diniz Neto and Belísia Lúcia Moreira Toscano Diniz
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104088 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Cassava is a staple food mainly produced with low management inputs, causing soil depletion and low yields. The use of organic inputs, such as humic substances (HSs), represents a sustainable alternative to increase cassava growth and production, mainly in semi-arid regions such as
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Cassava is a staple food mainly produced with low management inputs, causing soil depletion and low yields. The use of organic inputs, such as humic substances (HSs), represents a sustainable alternative to increase cassava growth and production, mainly in semi-arid regions such as the Brazilian Northeast. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the foliar application of a biostimulant based on humic substances on the morphophysiology, production, and mineral nutrient contents of cassava. The biofortified cultivar BRS Dourada was grown under field conditions and foliar application of a biostimulant based on humic substances (BHSs, treated plants) or water (untreated, control). The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with four repetitions. At 225 days after planting, the growth, productivity, and mineral nutrient contents of soil, roots, and leaves were determined. No differences between treated and untreated plants were found for growth and productivity (average 15.2 t ha−1). On the other hand, BHS treatment reduced net carbon assimilation, water use efficiency, and carboxylation efficiency by 34%, 24%, and 47%, respectively. Moreover, BHS treatment reduced nutrient uptake from soil, and Na and K contents in roots and leaves, respectively. A foliar BHS application is not recommended for cassava production in the conditions evaluated here.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Soil Management and Crop Production Research)
Open AccessReview
Measuring Corporate Digital Transformation: Methodology, Indicators and Applications
by
Limin Zou, Wan Li, Hongyi Wu, Jiawen Liu and Peng Gao
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4087; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104087 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
With the rapid development of data science, digital technology is integrating deeply with enterprise management, driving companies towards digital transformation to achieve sustainable development. However, digital transformation is a systematic and comprehensive process, posing challenges in accurately depicting firm-level digitalization. Hence, this study
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With the rapid development of data science, digital technology is integrating deeply with enterprise management, driving companies towards digital transformation to achieve sustainable development. However, digital transformation is a systematic and comprehensive process, posing challenges in accurately depicting firm-level digitalization. Hence, this study systematically reviews measurement methods for digital transformation across various themes related to enterprise digitalization. Existing literature predominantly employs questionnaire analysis, quantitative statistics, and text analysis to gauge the extent of digital transformation. In terms of indicator construction, existing literature mainly relies on input, process, and outcome variables to construct measurement indicators. Nevertheless, due to the subjectivity of questionnaires, the uniqueness of industry data, and the limitations of textual information, these methods and the indicators derived from them possess distinct applicability scopes. Refining the measurement of digital transformation should hinge on both the research objectives and the characteristics of the data. Furthermore, through the analysis of industry cases such as agriculture, manufacturing and service industries, this study also reveals the unique characteristics encountered by these industries in the process of digital transformation, provides a more detailed summary of measurement methods for these specific industries, and emphasizes the importance of selecting measurement methods according to industry characteristics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Business Digital Transformation Processes toward Circular Economy and Sustainability: 2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
Rural Buildings for Sustainable Development: A Real Estate Market Analysis in Southern Italy
by
Giuseppe Parete, Giovanni Ottomano Palmisano, Annalisa De Boni, Rocco Roma and Claudio Acciani
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4086; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104086 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The profound transformations of traditional rural landscapes have heightened attention towards the recovery and valorisation of their buildings, often abandoned, to accommodate new landscape usage needs. This aligns with the principles of sustainable landscape management. However, knowledge of the rural real estate market
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The profound transformations of traditional rural landscapes have heightened attention towards the recovery and valorisation of their buildings, often abandoned, to accommodate new landscape usage needs. This aligns with the principles of sustainable landscape management. However, knowledge of the rural real estate market remains largely unexplored. This research aims to define and examine the key features influencing the purchase of rural buildings, for shedding light on their market. The objective is to provide useful new insight to the property appraisers and real estate agents involved in the sale of traditional rural buildings, even if in conditions of degradation or abandonment and in traditional landscape contexts. Furthermore, these results could serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, enabling them to indirectly evaluate the impacts of urban and landscape policies on buyers’ preferences regarding key features of rural properties. The research focused on the ‘trulli’, traditional buildings located in the Valle d’Itria (Puglia, Southern Italy). First, a detailed market analysis was carried out with the support of local real estate experts, to survey the transactions of trulli and identify the features influencing their purchase. Second, the obtained dataset was analysed through network analysis, which enabled us to explore the role and importance assigned by buyers to the identified features. The results highlighted that the quality of the landscape where trulli are located changed the buyers’ viewpoint on the purchase features. In greater detail, price, area, potable water accessibility and level of maintenance of trulli were the most crucial features, particularly in high and medium landscape value zones, compatible with touristic and recreational activities. On the other hand, the annex agricultural surface covered a central function in low landscape value zone for possible agricultural uses.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Multi-Tier Supply Chain Learning Networks: A Simulation Study Based on the Experience-Weighted Attraction (EWA) Model
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Yu Gong, Xiaojiang Xu, Changping Zhao and Tobias Schoenherr
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104085 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Supply chain learning (SCL), which is reflected in organizational learning, referring to the learning between organizations in the supply chain, carries the promise to enable sustainable competitive advantages. Many large multinational companies, such as IKEA, Nestle, and Microsoft, have therefore integrated supply chain
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Supply chain learning (SCL), which is reflected in organizational learning, referring to the learning between organizations in the supply chain, carries the promise to enable sustainable competitive advantages. Many large multinational companies, such as IKEA, Nestle, and Microsoft, have therefore integrated supply chain knowledge management and continuous learning into their corporate strategies. While there is evidence in extant research about a positive correlation between both the subjective attitude and learning ability of supply chain members and their performance improvement, areas where insight is still missing pertain to the relationship between supply chain members’ subjective psychological factors, and their relationship network structures. This is a serious omission, since these dimensions likely play a key role in the dynamics underlying SCL. In order to alleviate this void, we consider a multi-tier SCL network and develop a model in which a supply chain member’s attraction is weighted based on its previous learning experience. The game mechanism underlying SCL captured in this experience-weighted attraction (EWA) model is then tested using a simulation study of IKEA China’s multi-tier supply chain network for its sustainable cotton initiative. The results suggest that learning costs can be reduced and learning spillover befits can be increased by the provision of rewards to network member companies and better communication. In addition, the perception of and preference for SCL by suppliers can be influenced by initiating sustainable advocacy and providing knowledge and technology training, as well as fostering a range of subjective factors we investigate in our study, such as the strategic attractiveness the decline ratio due to forgetting, the attractiveness improvement ratio due to preferences, and the response sensitivity to strategies. The findings offer insight into the influence mechanisms of the supply chain network structure and subjective attitude about SCL, which are especially applicable to large, multinational enterprises.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Innovation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessEditorial
Future Foods in the Face of Hunger and Surplus: From Sustainable Production to Responsible Consumption
by
Rana Muhammad Aadil, Emanuele Radicetti, Ghulam Haider and Paola Tedeschi
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4084; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104084 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This Editorial refers to the Special Issue “Future Foods in the Face of Hunger and Surplus: From Sustainable Production to Responsible Consumption”. [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future Foods in the Face of Hunger and Surplus: From Sustainable Production to Responsible Consumption)
Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Impact of Hallyu (Korean Wave) on Korea’s Consumer Goods Exports to China: Panel Analysis Using Big Data and Provincial-Level Data
by
Furong Jin, Soon-Hong Kim, Yoon-Kyung Choi and Byong-Kook Yoo
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4083; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104083 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This study empirically analyzes how the Hallyu (Korean Wave) phenomenon affects Korea’s consumer goods exports to China using Chinese provincial-level panel data covering the period from 2011 to 2020. This paper adopts Baidu Index big data with the keywords “Korean drama”, “Korean movie”,
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This study empirically analyzes how the Hallyu (Korean Wave) phenomenon affects Korea’s consumer goods exports to China using Chinese provincial-level panel data covering the period from 2011 to 2020. This paper adopts Baidu Index big data with the keywords “Korean drama”, “Korean movie”, “Korean music”, and “Korean entertainment” as proxy variables for Hallyu. The paper investigates the impact of Hallyu on Korean consumer goods exports by subdividing consumer goods into seven processing steps. In addition to the effect of the composite Hallyu index, the effect of each Hallyu content is also examined. Moreover, this study also investigates the impact of the political issue of the deployment of the THAAD American anti-ballistic missile defense system by dividing the period from 2011 to 2020 into before and after 2016. An export equation that includes income level, the Hallyu index, as well as other variables recognized as factors affecting Korea’s exports in existing studies, is used. Several interesting conclusions have been reached. First, Hallyu in China has a significant impact on Korea’s exports of non-durable consumer goods and processed household food and beverages to China. Second, the political issue of the deployment of THAAD has a negative impact on Korea’s exports of consumer goods to China. Third, among the four types of Hallyu content, dramas, as the most popular content in China, have the greatest influence on Korea’s exports of consumer goods to China.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of Important Wetlands and Optimization of Landscape Patterns Based on Human Pressure Index: The Case of the Linghekou Wetland in China
by
Meiqing Wang, Qian Cheng and Ruixin Chen
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4082; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104082 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The Linghekou wetland is a rich repository of ecological resources and serves as an important habitat for numerous rare and protected animals. However, due to a confluence of natural and anthropogenic factors, the ecological environment of the Linghekou wetland is facing a multitude
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The Linghekou wetland is a rich repository of ecological resources and serves as an important habitat for numerous rare and protected animals. However, due to a confluence of natural and anthropogenic factors, the ecological environment of the Linghekou wetland is facing a multitude of threats, including the reduction in wetland area, the degradation of wetland resources, and the instability of ecological structure. This paper employs an anthropogenic focus, utilizing the human pressure index (HPI), spatial autocorrelation, and cold and hot spot methods to identify crucial wetlands. These identified wetlands are then utilized as ecological source sites to optimize the landscape pattern of the Linghekou wetland, employing the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model. The final results indicated the identification of 6 ecological sources, 8 ecological corridors, and 42 ecological nodes. These were primarily concentrated in the southern region of the study area and were distributed in a reasonable manner. The method of identifying ecological sources when optimizing the landscape pattern with the MCR model was enriched by this approach. Additionally, the paper offers recommendations for the optimization of the landscape pattern of the Linghekou wetland and establishes a foundation for the protection and restoration of other similar wetlands.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
The Economic Feasibility of (Re-)Introducing Tram-Trains in Canada: Okanagan Valley Electric Regional Passenger Rail
by
Tye Boray, Mohamed Hegazi, Holger Busche and Gord Lovegrove
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4081; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104081 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Population and tourism growth has increased congestion, collisions, climate harming emissions, and transport inequities in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia (B.C.), Canada. Surveys indicate a willingness among residents to switch from cars to public transit featuring better service levels and connections. We conducted
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Population and tourism growth has increased congestion, collisions, climate harming emissions, and transport inequities in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia (B.C.), Canada. Surveys indicate a willingness among residents to switch from cars to public transit featuring better service levels and connections. We conducted an analysis on the economic feasibility of an Okanagan Valley Electric Regional Passenger Rail (OVER PR) powered by zero-emission (ZE) Fuel Cell/Battery Hybrid Rail (Hydrail) technology along a 342-km route between Osoyoos, B.C., at the US Border and Kamloops, B.C., the Canadian VIA rail hub. Hydrail passenger light-rail has operated successfully since 2018 in Germany and was demonstrated in Quebec, Canada, in 2023. Technical analyses have confirmed the feasibility in B.C. on steep Highway (Hwy) 97 grades and mountainous weather, with mode shift forecasts in the range of 30%. OVER PR economic analyses were also favorable, with net present value (NPV) = CAD 40 billion (CDN, base year 2023), benefit–cost ratio (BCR) = 9:1, and Return on Investments (IRR) = 33% over 30 years. Subject to additional stakeholder consultations and final design reviews, these results were tested against risks using Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) and Reference-Class Forecasting (RCF), including worst-case risks such as 70% cost over-runs. OVER PR promises an economic transition to clean energy, sustainable transportation, and more livable communities, benefiting all Valley communities through greater transportation equity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inter-urban Zero-Emission Rail Technology: Analyses of Emerging Passenger and Freight Transportation System Retrofits)
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Open AccessArticle
Tourism as an Opportunity or the Danger of Saturation for the Historical Coastal Towns
by
Nataša Danilović Hristić, Marijana Pantić and Nebojša Stefanović
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4080; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104080 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
In the era of urbanization, small towns confront challenges in sustaining and preserving their essence and population. Historical towns have discovered their potential in tourism development, yet this opportunity often escalates into overtourism, particularly in renowned cruising destinations. This paper focuses on examples
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In the era of urbanization, small towns confront challenges in sustaining and preserving their essence and population. Historical towns have discovered their potential in tourism development, yet this opportunity often escalates into overtourism, particularly in renowned cruising destinations. This paper focuses on examples of coastal historical towns dependent on tourism revenue and faced with an excessive influx of tourists in the Mediterranean Region. The objective is to examine various cases across diverse geographical, cultural, and policy contexts to evaluate their success in achieving a balance between economic development and genius loci. This analysis seeks to identify the factors that contributed to the attainment of this equilibrium. Therefore, we selected case studies throughout the Mediterranean coast—from Saint Paul de Vence and Èze at the Azure Coast, Dubrovnik and Kotor in the Adriatic Sea, to Nafplio and Monemvasia in the Aegean Sea. The selected examples range from towns that are almost entirely depopulated to those that are suffocating from the influx of tourists. Observations on the spot and review of policies led us to the conclusion that the geography of the area and cultural values represent comparative (dis)advantages that can be influenced and shaped by policies from the time of the pre-tourist phase to the phase of overtourism. Even though the success of an early policy and the effects of investments aligned with it might be uncertain, pre-tourist policies turn out to be the most successful when it comes to balanced tourist-resident development. Determination of authorities to not only see economic benefit but also genius loci and quality of life of residents is crucial, too.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resident Well-Being and Sustainable Tourism Development)
Open AccessArticle
Insights into Simulated Smart Mobility on Roundabouts: Achievements, Lessons Learned, and Steps Ahead
by
Maria Luisa Tumminello, Elżbieta Macioszek and Anna Granà
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4079; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104079 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
This paper explores the domain of intelligent transportation systems, specifically focusing on roundabouts as potential solutions in the context of smart mobility. Roundabouts offer a safer and more efficient driving environment compared to other intersections, thanks to their curvilinear trajectories promoting speed control
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This paper explores the domain of intelligent transportation systems, specifically focusing on roundabouts as potential solutions in the context of smart mobility. Roundabouts offer a safer and more efficient driving environment compared to other intersections, thanks to their curvilinear trajectories promoting speed control and lower vehicular speeds for traffic calming. The synthesis review supported the authors in presenting current knowledge and emerging needs in roundabout design and evaluation. A focused examination of the models and methods used to assess safety and operational performance of roundabout systems was necessary. This is particularly relevant in light of new challenges posed by the automotive market and the influence of vehicle-to-vehicle communication on the conceptualization and design of this road infrastructure. Two case studies of roundabouts were analyzed in Aimsun to simulate the increasing market penetration rates of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and their traffic impacts. Through microscopic traffic simulation, the research evaluated safety and performance efficiency advancements in roundabouts. The paper concludes by outlining areas for further research and evolving perspectives on the role of roundabouts in the transition toward connected and autonomous vehicles and infrastructures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Road Transport System Planning and Optimization)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Effectiveness of Sustainable Strategies to Bridge the Digital Divide in the Mobility Sector: A Pilot Test in Seoul
by
Ahhae Cho, Jihun Seo, Sunghoon Kim, Jungwoo Cho and Youngho Kim
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4078; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104078 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The emergence of digital mobility services holds great promise for enhancing efficiency, convenience, and accessibility for passengers. However, these benefits are predominantly accessible to those proficient in utilizing these technologies, which may intensify the disparity in transportation usage. This paper presents plans to
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The emergence of digital mobility services holds great promise for enhancing efficiency, convenience, and accessibility for passengers. However, these benefits are predominantly accessible to those proficient in utilizing these technologies, which may intensify the disparity in transportation usage. This paper presents plans to alleviate the digital divide in the mobility sector. First, two fundamental approaches were established through a literature review: (1) app usage education and (2) an AI-based Mobility Service App. To substantiate the effectiveness of these approaches, a pilot test was conducted in Seoul. The results of the pilot test showed that the AI-based Mobility Service App was effective for reducing travel time and enhancing the convenience of passage. Accordingly, the Technology Acceptance Model was adopted to derive technology acceptance factors of the AI-based Mobility Service App. Finally, a phased approach with short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans was proposed based on the analysis results to ensure sustainable policies in the mobility sector.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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Open AccessArticle
Aerobic Polishing of Liquid Digestate for Preparation of Hydroponic Fertiliser
by
Lebani Oarabile Joy Mathe, Simira Ramsumer, Hendrik Gideon Brink and Willie Nicol
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4077; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104077 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
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Nutrient pollution—mainly nitrogen and phosphorus—caused by organic waste continues to impact the environment. The implementation of a circular economy is integral to alleviating these effects. Liquid digestate, which is a byproduct of anaerobic digestion (a waste-valorising process), is a nutrient-dense organic fertiliser with
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Nutrient pollution—mainly nitrogen and phosphorus—caused by organic waste continues to impact the environment. The implementation of a circular economy is integral to alleviating these effects. Liquid digestate, which is a byproduct of anaerobic digestion (a waste-valorising process), is a nutrient-dense organic fertiliser with vast applications in agriculture. Using an aerobic polishing unit, this study developed a viable method for the preparation of a hydroponic fertiliser by investigating the effect of pH on the nutrient recycling capabilities of said system. The heterotrophic bacteria present in the biofilm, identified by 16S gene sequencing, are responsible for 90% of organic carbon (as TOC) removal with minimal ammonium loss. This is ideal for promoting optimal nitrification in hydroponic systems in the absence of organic carbon to ensure plant growth is not affected. Although pH 8 was found to be ideal for batch operation, this pH condition resulted in decreased microbial longevity and, therefore, increased ammonification due to microbial decay. Therefore, continuous operation at pH 7 proved to be a better option owing to the ammonium-rich effluent (>220 mg/L) which was produced, which is on par with the nitrogen concentration of a Hoagland solution. The continuous carbon polishing of liquid digestate provides an efficient way of utilising organic fertilisers in hydroponic systems.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Digitalization on the Sustainability of Small Farms
by
Kristina Šermukšnytė-Alešiūnienė and Rasa Melnikienė
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4076; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104076 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Digitalization of agriculture is one of the priorities of the EU’s rural development strategy “From Field to Table”, which promotes the creation of more added value and climate change mitigation in agriculture. A growing body of the literature argues that digitalization enables better
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Digitalization of agriculture is one of the priorities of the EU’s rural development strategy “From Field to Table”, which promotes the creation of more added value and climate change mitigation in agriculture. A growing body of the literature argues that digitalization enables better information management, reduces production costs, and increases the potential for farm income growth, but only a few papers provide empirical studies on how digitalization improves the performance of small farms. To fill this gap in the literature, this paper presents a case study as empirical evidence of the impact of digital innovation on smallholder performance through a sustainable development lens. This paper reports research based on a pilot digitalization project implemented on a small organic farm. It examines the identification of logical links between the digitalization processes introduced and the impact of digitalization on the economic, social, and environmental performance of the small farm. The case study data were collected through semi-structured interviews and based on the results of a pilot project. The findings of this study provide evidence that the introduction of digital technologies has improved the economic performance of the farm, including a reduction in labor costs, improved customer relations, improvements in farmers’ investment planning, and process redesign. Based on this study, recommendations are made to policymakers on how to promote the uptake of digital technologies in smallholder farming.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Agricultural and Rural Development in a Changing World)
Open AccessArticle
Culturally Informed Technology: Assessing Its Importance in the Transition to Smart Sustainable Cities
by
Ibrahim Mutambik
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4075; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104075 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Since the idea of the smart city was first introduced, over two decades ago, there has been an increasing focus on sustainability as a core strategic priority. However, as the relevance, importance and even definition of sustainability is a function of cultural context,
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Since the idea of the smart city was first introduced, over two decades ago, there has been an increasing focus on sustainability as a core strategic priority. However, as the relevance, importance and even definition of sustainability is a function of cultural context, planners must take account of local and regional cultural factors in the selection and adaption of digital infrastructures, as well as in the management and encouragement of public acceptance. Achieving this is not a sequential process, but a concurrent one, as these factors are interdependent. This raises the question of what factors affect and mediate the technology, choice, and public acceptance of smart sustainable cities. This paper attempts to address this question by proposing a new model which advances our current, and considerable, understanding of Technology Acceptance Modelling—using an analysis based on Structural Equation Modelling. This new model, called the Culturally Informed Technology Acceptance Model, was validated using data from a survey of residents of a variety of Saudi Arabian cities. The proposed model is designed around important factors that can be influenced by cultural context, such as digital literacy, process improvements, cost savings and privacy, and is a useful tool for understanding the role of culture in the public acceptance of smart sustainable technology. This design focus is for a number of reasons, such as helping development bodies ensure that the technologies used align with the socio-cultural context. It will also help in the management of at-scale technology roll out in a way that is resource-efficient. Although the Culturally Informed Technology Acceptance Model has been developed and validated using data from Saudi Arabia, the authors believe that it could be adapted to meet the needs of countries/cities that are looking to implement smart city strategies matched to their own distinct socio-cultural identity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability, Strategic Management, Smart Governance and Smart Cities)
Open AccessArticle
Understanding Romanian Generational Preferences and Travel Decision-Making When Choosing a Rural Destination
by
Andra Ramona Poruțiu, Anca Monica Brata, Diana E. Dumitras, Olivia Paula Oros and Iulia C. Muresan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4074; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104074 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered consumer behavior and reshaped the tourism industry, particularly impacting travel destination choices. Pre-pandemic, travelers prioritized experiences and adventure, often overlooking health and safety concerns. However, during and after the pandemic, health, hygiene, and the COVID-19 situation emerged
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The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered consumer behavior and reshaped the tourism industry, particularly impacting travel destination choices. Pre-pandemic, travelers prioritized experiences and adventure, often overlooking health and safety concerns. However, during and after the pandemic, health, hygiene, and the COVID-19 situation emerged as crucial factors in choosing a rural destination, alongside economic considerations. The current study analyzed the tourists’ preferences in the North-West development region of Romania when choosing a rural destination. An online survey was conducted, and 563 questionnaires were validated in the end. The principal component analysis used to analyze the collected data led to a two-factor solution: “sanitary and administrative” and “economic and social”. Comparative analysis based on age showed significant differences in education, income, and family composition between Generation Y and Generation Z. Preferences for domestic destinations and participation in festivals were higher among Generation Z, while interest in international travel was comparable between the generations. These findings provide insights into the evolving travel behaviors and preferences of different age groups in the wake of the pandemic.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Rural Tourism: Methods, Strategies and Practice)
Open AccessSystematic Review
Systematic Review on Internet of Things in Smart Livestock Management Systems
by
Sebastian Terence, Jude Immaculate, Anishin Raj and Jeba Nadarajan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4073; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104073 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
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The advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) has sparked the creation of numerous improved and new applications across numerous industries. Data collection from remote locations and remote object control are made possible by Internet of Things technology. The IoT has numerous applications
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The advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) has sparked the creation of numerous improved and new applications across numerous industries. Data collection from remote locations and remote object control are made possible by Internet of Things technology. The IoT has numerous applications in fields such as education, healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, and smart homes. Numerous studies have recently employed IoT technology to automate livestock farm operations. We looked at IoT-based livestock farm management systems in this study. To select the publications for this investigation, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) that complied with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. The selected articles were divided into different categories according to their applications. Sensors, actuators, the main controller (gateway), communication protocols, storage, energy consumption, the use of renewable energy sources, scalability, security, and prediction techniques applied to the data collected for future prediction were all examined in this study as IoT technologies used to monitor animals. In this study, we found that only 22% of the articles addressed security concerns, 24% discussed scalability, 16% discussed renewable energy, 18% attempted energy consumption, and 33% employed prediction techniques based on the collected data. The challenges and future directions of intelligent livestock farming are emphasized.
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Open AccessArticle
A Panel Analysis Regarding the Influence of Sustainable Development Indicators on Green Taxes
by
Claudia Diana Sabău-Popa, Alexandra Maria Bele, Mirela Bucurean, Sorina Ioana Mociar-Coroiu and Naiana Nicoleta Tarcă
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4072; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104072 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Green taxes are taxes collected to protect the environment by controlling the negative effects of certain activities and products on the environment. They are also an instrument of environmental policy and can therefore contribute to several sustainable development goals. According to the studies
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Green taxes are taxes collected to protect the environment by controlling the negative effects of certain activities and products on the environment. They are also an instrument of environmental policy and can therefore contribute to several sustainable development goals. According to the studies carried out, the green economy aims to ensure sustainable development. The main objective of this paper is to identify the existing relationships between green taxes and sustainable economic development through a dynamic panel analysis. A dynamic panel analysis was therefore carried out on the existing links between environmental taxes and charges at the European level and the indicators of the circular economy. The results of the two dynamic regressions for the two dependent variables, namely total green taxes and energy taxes, show a positive and significant correlation with the variation of GDP and with primary energy consumption, confirming the hypothesis that environmental taxes and energy taxes are closely linked to these two important indicators of sustainable development. Thus, as GDP changes, the taxes on energy production and the energy products used in both transport and stationary applications increase. As a result of the analysis, we can note that the increase in primary energy consumption and the consumption of raw materials leads to an increase in environmental and energy taxes. Energy taxes are a possible solution to reduce CO2 emissions in third world countries and may even stimulate climate action. In contrast, we found no significant correlation between green taxes and the following variables: Human Development Index, net greenhouse gas emissions, private investment and gross value added related to circular economy sectors, the consumption of raw materials, waste generated, waste treatment, the supply, transformation, and consumption of renewable energy, public expenditure on environmental protection, and climate-related economic losses.
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(This article belongs to the Section Development Goals towards Sustainability)
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Open AccessArticle
ARIMA-Driven Vegetable Pricing and Restocking Strategy for Dual Optimization of Freshness and Profitability in Supermarket Perishables
by
Hongliang Li, Jun Liu, Jiangjie Qiu, Yunsen Zhou, Xu Zhang, Yuming Wang and Wei Guo
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4071; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104071 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
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In the evolving landscape of perishable goods management, where the balance between minimizing waste and maximizing profitability is paramount, this work introduces an innovative approach to pricing and inventory decisions for products with limited shelf lives, focusing on vegetables in supermarkets. The contribution
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In the evolving landscape of perishable goods management, where the balance between minimizing waste and maximizing profitability is paramount, this work introduces an innovative approach to pricing and inventory decisions for products with limited shelf lives, focusing on vegetables in supermarkets. The contribution lies in its integration of an automated pricing and restocking decision model that leverages autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) forecasting techniques alongside dynamic pricing strategies tailored to the goods’ freshness and remaining shelf life. The study uses a comprehensive sales, spoilage rates, and customer demand dataset to apply ARIMA forecasting for optimal restocking and adjusts prices dynamically based on product freshness, promoting competitive pricing and waste reduction. The results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness, reducing spoilage rates by up to 30% and increasing profitability margins by about 15%, highlighting its practical utility in real-world scenarios. The research highlights the potential for supermarkets to improve perishable goods inventory management, leading to significant economic benefits and reduced food waste. This study contributes to sustainable retail practices aligning with global responsible consumption and production initiatives, offering a scalable economic efficiency and environmental stewardship solution.
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